About Us

The RT Autism Awareness Foundation will enhance the quality of life for children with autism and their families through support, advocacy, awareness, and education.

The RT Autism Awareness Foundation is committed to ensure that children diagnosed within the autism spectrum receive the love, care, and therapy that they deserve. It demonstrates this commitment through its strategic goals of (1) public education, awareness and advocacy, (2) support and information for children and families, (3) financial growth and stability, (4) organizational effectiveness, and (5) commitment to the Foundation.

In May of 2003, Brad and Joan Trahan of Rochester, MN, founded the RT (Reece Trahan) Autism Awareness Foundation (RTAAF) shortly after learning in January 2003 that their son Reece, then three, was diagnosed with severe autism. In January of 2003, Brad and Joan Trahan of Rochester, Minnesota learned that their son Reece, then three, had been diagnosed with severe autism.  In May of that year they founded the RT (Reece Trahan) Autism Awareness Foundation (RTAAF). The Trahan family, along with the RTAAF Board of Directors, wants families with children who are diagnosed with autism to know that they are not alone and that we will strive to ensure that neither children nor families face this emotional battle alone.

In the early stages of the Foundation, RTAAF established and supported autism awareness throughout Southeastern Minnesota and the surrounding area. However, that was only the beginning.  RTAAF is extending its reach, enabling it to touch lives beyond geographical boundaries.  RTAAF will not allow geography to be a barrier to the Foundation’s passion and goal. Through sponsored events and support groups, the RT Autism Awareness Foundation will continue to assist those diagnosed with autism, and will demonstrate this commitment through its powerful words, professional actions, and relentless determination.